In this week’s episode, we had the privilege of hosting Ben Gleib, comedian, actor, satirist, writer, former presidential candidate, lead anchor on The Young Turks – the longest-running online news and politics talk show – and man of many talents. Ben brought with him a suitcase full of humor, a heart full of empathy and a keen eye for truth as he recounted his recent visit to Israel amidst the ongoing conflict.
Seamlessly weaving together the threads of comedy with the somber realities of war, Ben shared encounters with people whose lives have been upended, soldiers risking their lives, and families torn apart by violence.
Topics of discussion ranged from managing isolation as a pro-Israel voice in the U.S. progressive left, Ben’s relationship with Judaism since October 7th, changes in media tastes and the the perplexing lack of nuance and compassion towards Jewish groups. Ben and Amy also explored the impact of social media, strategies for contending with misinformation and hate speech online, ethical journalism, and finding humor in the darkest of hours.
In addition to being a lead anchor at TYT, Ben also does his own video series for them twice a week called “Rebel HQ,” sharing his hilarious and blistering take on the world, with over 8 million views in just the first 6 months. Ben candidly spoke about why he is determined to stay at TYT, despite being one of the only voices there supporting Israel during this conflict, with thousands turning on him, and some even calling him “Genocide Ben.”
Throughout the conversation, Ben’s voice was both a beacon of hope and a call to action. He reminded us that in the face of adversity, our humanity is our greatest strength. And while the world may be rife with conflict, there are always opportunities for dialogue, understanding, and, yes, even laughter.
While the episode delivered laughs, it also delved into the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, challenging listeners to look beyond headlines and easy narratives. Ben's storytelling struck a balance of light and dark, making us laugh one moment and reflect deeply the next. As Ben and Amy delved into the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, he challenged listeners to embrace a deeper understanding beyond headlines and easy narratives.
This gripping episode is a rollercoaster of emotions, offering insights into the intersection of comedy, politics, and the indomitable will to find hope amid chaos. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that explores the power of conversation and humor in bridging divides and healing wounds.
Recorded on January 16 (Day 102).
Connect with Ben on Instagram (@bengleib) and be sure to check out:
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